Joe Latakgomo: Official honors marked for passing of esteemed Journalist

Share the Article:

President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s request to grant the late veteran journalist Joe Latakgomo a Special Official Provincial Funeral Category Two.

This designation honours Latakgomo’s significant contributions to journalism and the fight for freedom.

Latakgomo died on Sunday, following a distinguished career spanning over five decades.

The individual was a key figure in Black journalism during apartheid, notably as the founding editor of The Sowetan in 1981, providing a voice for the marginalised.

His career also included significant roles at publications like The World and Weekend World, known for their fearless reporting, which led to their banning.

Furthermore, he held positions such as senior assistant editor at The Star and assistant editor at the Argus Africa News Service and served as the public editor of Times Media.

Bra Joe also served as the Press Council’s public advocate from 2018 to 2020.

Remembering Bra Joe

Premier Lesufi praised the late Bra Joe for his unwavering commitment to truth-telling, amplifying marginalised voices, and using impactful journalism to drive societal transformation during critical national times.

Current public advocate Thabo Leshilo, views Latakgomo as a significant mentor, stating that ‘Bra Joe’s mastery of this craft and his fearlessness in speaking truth to the power of the apartheid regime played an important part in inspiring some of us to joint this noble craft.’

ALSO READ | Pops Mohamed’s Impact on South African Music Remembered

Mary Papayya, a South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) founding member and former editor, praised Latakgomo’s significant impact as a dedicated news media leader.

She highlighted his willingness to share knowledge and experience, noting that his leadership was characterised by kindness and patience.

Papayya emphasised that Latakgomo demonstrated humanity in all his interactions and served with great honour on the Press Council as a public advocate, consistently showing conscientiousness in his thinking and actions.